The single sharpest fact in one or two punchy sentences. Who did what, where, when, and why it matters: An APC chieftain has spoken out against violence in Osun state, but experts warn of escalating tensions ahead of a crucial election. The party candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, faces intense competition.

Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a prominent APC chieftain in Osun state, has described claims linking the party and its candidate to rising political violence in the state as the handiwork of desperate politicians. Speaking to journalists on Sunday in Osogbo, Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker, maintained that the APC is founded on the Omoluabi ethos, which upholds integrity, discipline, humility, honesty, respect, compassion, justice, accountability, and selfless service.

Oyintiloye condemned the killing of innocent residents for political purposes, describing those responsible as people with a 'dead conscience.' He added that no political ambition or partisan interest is worth the loss of a human life. 'The APC is a party of peace, and we have nothing to do with the allegations of violence against us,' Oyintiloye said.

According to him, the party does not need to engage in violence to win the August 15 governorship election. He emphasized that violence does not secure electoral victory and that the APC has completely dissociated itself from any individual or group using its name to perpetrate violence, create unrest, intimidate citizens, or disrupt public peace in any part of the state.

Oyintiloye called on party members, political actors, security agencies, and the general public to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant, while allowing relevant authorities to investigate incidents and bring perpetrators to justice. He reaffirmed the APC's commitment to democracy, peace, justice, and the protection of lives and property, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the unity, stability, and development of Osun State above political considerations.

Oyintiloye also sympathized with families of victims of extrajudicial killings and other acts of violence in the state, praying that God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that there have been a series of political violence incidents in the state, resulting in killings in different parts ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The state police command has assured residents of their safety, promising to apprehend those responsible for the killings. A series of meetings have been held in the state to address the rising violence, with stakeholders calling for an end to the killings and the protection of lives and property.

The APC candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, faces intense competition in the governorship election, with several other parties and candidates vying for the top seat. The election is expected to be closely contested, with observers warning of the potential for further violence.

The Omoluabi ethos, which Oyintiloye cited, is a set of values and principles that emphasize integrity, discipline, and selflessness. It is a core part of the APC's identity and is seen as a key factor in the party's commitment to democracy and peace.

The August 15 governorship election is a critical moment in Osun state's history, with the potential to determine the direction of the state's future. The violence that has marred the campaign period has raised concerns about the safety of citizens and the integrity of the electoral process.

As the election approaches, both the APC and its opponents are under pressure to maintain peace and order. The police have vowed to protect citizens and ensure a peaceful election, but experts warn that the situation remains volatile.

The impact of the election on the state's economy and stability is also a pressing concern. With several parties and candidates vying for power, there is a risk of further violence and instability.

In a state that has a growing economy and a thriving business sector, the prospect of violence and instability is deeply concerning. The government has called for restraint and peace, but the situation remains tense.

Experts warn that the situation remains volatile and that further violence is possible. The August 15 election is a critical moment for Osun state, and the outcome will have significant implications for the state's future.

Key Facts

• Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, the APC governorship candidate, faces intense competition in the August 15 election. • There have been a series of political violence incidents in the state, resulting in killings in different parts. • The state police command has assured residents of their safety and promised to apprehend those responsible for the killings. • The APC has completely dissociated itself from any individual or group using its name to perpetrate violence or create unrest. • The Omoluabi ethos is a set of values and principles that emphasize integrity, discipline, and selflessness. • The August 15 election is critical for Osun state's future, and the outcome will have significant implications for the state's economy and stability.